US Mint Unveils New $1 Coin Featuring Donald Trump

The U.S. Mint has started producing a new $1 coin featuring the face of President Donald Trump in celebration of America’s 250th birthday. The Treasury Department announced this development on Wednesday. The final design for this commemorative coin was approved by the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts earlier this year. However, the finished coin presented a few differences; it has a gold finish instead of being made of gold.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that the coin aims to “honor the enduring legacy of liberty and serve as a lasting symbol of patriotism.” He further explained that featuring President Trump, the coin celebrates American values and the nation’s dedication to freedom.

In an interview with Fox Business Network, Trump described the honor as unique, expressing his amusement by calling the coin “very cute.” President Trump has previously engaged in several acts of self-promotion, such as renaming the U.S. Institute of Peace and a class of battleships, among other tributes.

The decision to feature his likeness on the coin has gathered criticism due to a federal law prohibiting depictions of living presidents on U.S. currency. Yet, the treasury secretary does have certain circumstances under which they can authorize the creation and release of coins. The front of this coin shows Trump in a suit and tie with a serious expression. “LIBERTY” is inscribed at the top, and “1776-2026” at the bottom. “IN GOD WE TRUST” is also included.

The reverse side shows the traditional bald eagle from the Great Seal of the U.S. “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” adorns the top, accompanied by the Latin phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM” on the shield on the eagle’s chest.

One of the differences from the initial approved design is that Trump is not shown with his fists on a desk. The Treasury did not explain why the final design deviated from the original. In March, the Treasury Department announced plans to incorporate Trump’s signature on all new U.S. paper currency, which customarily carries signatures of the treasury secretary and treasurer.

Associated Press writer Darlene Superville contributed to this report.